Learning Outcomes

Anthropology

be able to think critically regarding topics related to culture and society, both locally and globally;

be able to discuss the significance of cultural and social processes and cause and effect relationships as related to particular groups and with respect to the human experience in general;

be able to demonstrate an understanding of key ideas and theoretical concepts which inform discourses within anthropology, such as culture, culture change, small-group societies, rural societies, urban societies, transnational societies, subcultures, mass cultures, group organization and dynamics, economic and political systems, social movements, social difference, power, social conflict, development and underdevelopment, globalization, symbolic systems, identity, representation, colonialism and postcoloniality

be able to analyze a wide-range of social and cultural topics, concrete examples, and case studies using the key ideas and theoretical concepts which inform anthropology

exhibit knowledge of and competency in diverse methodological approaches required for undertaking research within varied contexts

be able to organize and write research/scholarly papers and make presentations, on a range of topics related to culture and society, that demonstrate critical and analytical thought, well-structured arguments, and proper citation

be able to understand, analyze, and explain the social construction of identity and difference (e.g. gender, ethnicity, race, religion, class, etc.), and their categorizations.

be conversant with indigenous epistemologies in keeping with UFV's indigenization initiatives

be familiar with the knowledges and worldviews of a diverse range of cultural groups from the local region and around the world;

understand and practice anthropological ethics.

Media and Communications Studies

Define media and communication studies.

Discuss the origins and history of communication and the media.

Evaluate media texts to assess their appeal and impact.

Describe the exercise of power over the media and by the media.

Identify the myriad ways in which the economy motivates and constrains media professionals.

Describe the role of government and the courts in formulating and implementing policies pertaining to the media

Analyze the impact of the media on audiences for better and for worse.

Assess the impact of technological developments on media producers and consumers,

Acknowledge the importance of ethics for media professionals.

Conduct cross-cultural communication.

Situate Canadian mass media in a global context.

Identify how different regions around the world deal with media-related issues.

Carry out qualitative or quantitative research on the sociocultural effects of the media.

Work independently on a project connected to media and communication studies.

Demonstrate the ability to work effectively with others.

Demonstrate written and oral communication skills.

Sociology

Students can demonstrate understanding of the discipline of sociology and its role in contributing to our understanding of social reality.

Students can demonstrate the role of theory in sociology

Students can demonstrate understanding of the role of evidence and qualitative and quantitative methods

Students can: retrieve information from the Internet; use computers for data analysis; write in appropriate social science style to convey findings; apply principles of ethical practice

Students can articulate an understanding of how culture and social structure operate: institutions; social change; variance of culture and structure across time and place; implications of social policy

Students can articulate the reciprocal relationship between individuals and society

Students can articulate the macro/micro distinction and show they can apply it to their thinking/analysis

Students can articulate at least two specialty areas within sociology in depth

Students can articulate the internal diversity of Canada and its place in the international context

Students can demonstrate critical thinking

Students will develop values: articulate the utility of the sociological perspective; negative effects of social inequality